Oxford Languages says self-reflection is the “meditation or serious thought about one's character, actions, and motives.”

Self-reflection examines and contemplates one's thoughts, emotions, experiences, and actions. It involves introspection and a deep exploration of oneself to gain insight, understanding, and personal growth. Self-reflection can be a valuable tool for self-improvement, decision-making, and greater self-awareness.

I had to learn that I was the common denominator with everything in my life. When I realized my daughter was becoming more reactive over time, I had to begin turning the mirror around. When things seemed too good to be true, it was really because I wasn’t allowing them to be good. Do you find yourself in the same situation? Is it a vicious cycle? If you examine situations that don’t seem favorable, what are YOU accepting that makes them unacceptable? We must get honest with ourselves. I will say the more I work from within, the more I can handle difficult situations and accept great people into my life. I have to know not everyone is out to get me. I can’t stay in survival mode my entire life. I hope the following will help someone out there begin the process I had to start to change my life and those I allow into my circle.

Here are some steps you can follow to engage in self-reflection:

1. Create a quiet and comfortable environment: Find a peaceful space to focus without distractions. This could be a quiet room, a park, or any place where you feel relaxed and can concentrate.

2. Set aside dedicated time: Allocate a specific period for self-reflection. It could be a few minutes each day or longer sessions on a weekly or monthly basis. Consistency is key.

3. Relax and clear your mind: Take a few deep breaths to calm your mind and let go of any tension or stress. This will help you approach the process with a clear and open mindset.

4. Ask yourself meaningful questions: Start by asking yourself thought-provoking questions. These could relate to your goals, values, beliefs, strengths, weaknesses, or any aspect of your life you want to explore. Some examples include:

   • What are my core values, and am I living in alignment with them?

   • What are my strengths, and how can I leverage them more effectively?

   • What are my biggest challenges or areas for improvement?

   • How do I handle setbacks and failures, and how can I learn from them?

   • What brings me joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose?

5. Engage in introspection: Ponder the questions you asked yourself and delve deep into your thoughts and feelings. Be honest and non-judgmental with yourself. Consider your past experiences, patterns of behavior, and their impact on your life and relationships.

6. Keep a journal: Writing down your reflections can be a powerful tool. Maintain a journal to record your thoughts, insights, and observations. This helps to solidify your considerations and provides a reference for future self-reflection.

7. Seek feedback: Contact trusted friends, family members, or mentors for feedback and insights. They may offer different perspectives to enhance your self-reflection and provide valuable input.

8. Take action: Self-reflection is most effective when it leads to positive change. Identify specific steps or changes you can make based on your insights. Set goals and develop a plan to implement them in your daily life.

Remember, self-reflection is an ongoing process. Regularly setting aside time for self-reflection can contribute to personal growth, increased self-awareness, and a more fulfilling life.